The world’s most prestigious culinary curators have officially expanded their local footprint, as the Michelin Guide adds nine new establishments in Hong Kong and Macau to its 2026 selection. This initial wave of inclusions reflects a dynamic landscape where several newcomers, some operational for less than a year, join seasoned veterans in receiving the Guide’s prestigious nod of approval. By identifying these “recommended” venues early in the year, Michelin inspectors are setting the stage for the highly anticipated annual awards ceremony scheduled for March 19 at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau.
A Diverse Palette of New Favorites
The list highlights the extraordinary breadth of Hong Kong’s dining scene, ranging from high-concept fusion to elevated street food. Among the most buzz-worthy additions is Akira Back at The Henderson. The Korean-American chef’s eponymous debut in Central has quickly become a local sensation for its playful Japanese-Korean-American crossovers, specifically the signature thin-crust tuna pizza.
Further enriching the city’s fine-dining credentials is Jija, the latest venture from decorated chef Vicky Lau. Located within the Kimpton Hong Kong, Jija offers a sophisticated deep dive into the flavors of Guizhou and Yunnan, with the dry-aged roasted pigeon serving as a testament to Lau’s meticulous technique.
European Flair and Neighborhood Staples
For those seeking European sensibilities, the Guide has recognized two distinct approaches:
- Jean-Pierre: A Black Sheep Restaurants concept, this chic neighborhood bistro is winning over diners with its signature roasted chicken and creative “cornichon martinis.”
- Fiata Pizza: Chef Salvatore Fiata’s Neapolitan pies—already globally recognized—bring world-class authenticity to the city, particularly the acclaimed Provola e Pepe.
On the contemporary front, Sol reinvents Korean classics through a fine-dining lens, while those craving local flavors can look to Lai’s Kitchen for a modernized dai pai dong experience. In Causeway Bay, Hau Tak Restaurant is refreshing the Cantonese dining experience, offering expertly executed dim sum and claypot dishes without the formality of traditional banquet halls.
Macau’s Emerging Stars
Across the water, the Michelin inspectors identified two standout venues in Macau. Mesa, spearheaded by celebrated chef José Avillez, finds a home at the Karl Lagerfeld hotel, blending Portuguese traditions with luxury ingredients like caviar. Meanwhile, Twelve25 offers an intimate Neo-French tasting menu experience on the Praia Peninsula, emphasizing artistic plating and precision wine pairings.
The Road to the Michelin Star
While these nine restaurants have earned a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide, it is important to note that a recommendation is not yet a formal distinction. These establishments are now officially “on the radar,” but the public must wait until the March 19 ceremony to see if any of these venues will be elevated to Michelin Star, Green Star, or Bib Gourmand status.
For Hong Kong food enthusiasts, these additions serve as a vetted roadmap for exploration, proving that whether a restaurant is a months-old newcomer or a multi-year staple, excellence eventually finds its way into the inspector’s notebook.
